Showing papers in "Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics in 2009"

A prospective, randomized clinical study of osteochondral autologous transplantation versus microfracture for the treatment of osteochondritis dissecans in the knee joint in children.

Abstract: Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of the arthroscopic mosaic-type osteochondral autologous transplantation (OAT) and microfracture (MF) procedures for the treatment of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) defects of the femoral condyles of the knee joint in children under the age of 18 years. Type of Study: Prospective, randomized clinical study. Methods: Between 2001 and 2005, a total of 50 children with a mean age of 14.3 years (12 to 18) and with symptomatic lesions of the OCD in the femoral condyle of the knee were randomized to undergo either the OAT or the MF procedure. Only those children with grade 3 or 4 (OCD) in the medial or lateral femoral condyle (according to International Cartilage Repair Society, ICRS) were included in the study. Forty-seven patients (94%) were available for follow-up. There were 25 patients in the OAT group and 22 patients in the MF group. The mean duration of symptoms was 23.54 ± 4.24 months and the mean follow-up was 4.2 years (range from 3 to 6 y), and none of the children had prior surgical interventions to the affected knee. Children were evaluated using ICRS score, x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, and second-look arthroscopies. Results: After 1 year, both groups had significant clinical improvement (P<0.05) and the ICRS functional and objective assessment showed that 23 of 25 (92%) patients had excellent or good results after OAT compared with 19 of 22 (86%) after MF (NS), but 19 of 23 (83%) after OAT and only 12 of 19 (63%) after MF procedure maintained excellent or good results after 4.2 years (range from 3 to 6 y). The MF group showed significant deterioration over the 4.2 years follow-up (P<0.05), but still had significant clinical improvement compared with pretreatment evaluation (P = 0.004). There were 9 of 22 (41%) failures in the MF group, and none in the OAT group. Magnetic resonance imaging evaluation according to the ICRS evaluation system showed excellent or good repairs in 19 of 21 patients (91%) after OAT compared with 10 of 18 (56%) after MF. Conclusions: At an average of 4.2 years follow-up, our prospective, randomized, clinical study in children under the age of 18 years has shown significant superiority of the mosaictype OAT over MF for the treatment of osteochondritis dissecans defects in the knee. However, our study has shown that both MF and OAT give encouraging clinical results for children under the age of 18 years. Level of Evidence: Level 1: randomized controlled trial, significant difference.

Prospective evaluation of a shortened regimen of treatment for acute osteomyelitis and septic arthritis in children.

Abstract: Background: We present the findings of a prospective, bi-center study to establish the appropriate duration of antibiotic therapy for acute, uncomplicated bone and joint infections in children. Historically, patients have been treated with prolonged courses of intravenous and oral therapy. Our hypothesis was that children could be safely treated with 3 days of high-dose intravenous therapy followed by 3 weeks of oral therapy. Methods: We prospectively collected data from children presenting to Birmingham Children's Hospital and The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne who fitted our diagnostic criteria for septic arthritis and osteomyelitis over a 52-month period. Inclusion criteria for entry into the database were children ≤ 16 years of age who had no underlying disease or medical therapy predisposing to infection, and who had symptoms for less than 14 days before presentation. They were all started on intravenous antibiotics and a predetermined treatment algorithm was followed. All patients with septic arthritis also underwent joint washout. The patients were converted to oral antibiotics once they improved clinically and hematologically. Regular outpatient follow-up continued for 1 year with blood tests and x-rays. Results: Our database included 70 consecutive, eligible children aged 2 weeks to 14 years. Staphylococci were the only organisms isolated in cases of osteomyelitis, whereas Streptococcal infection was more prevalent in patients with septic arthritis. Using our treatment protocol, we found that 59% of children could be converted to oral therapy after 3 days of intravenous therapy and 86% after 5 days. The median duration of inpatient stay was 5 days. We established that 3 weeks of oral therapy was appropriate for those patients who received 5 days or less intravenous treatment. We have identified temperature and C-reactive protein as the best quantitative means of monitoring response to therapy. All patients were clinically, hematologically, and radiologically normal before discharge 1 year post-presentation. Conclusions: We have found that a shortened course of intravenous and oral antibiotic therapy is effective in the management of acute uncomplicated bone and joint sepsis in children.

Derotational casting for progressive infantile scoliosis.

Abstract: BackgroundSerial cast correction by using the Cotrel derotation technique is one of several potential treatments for progressive infantile scoliosis. This study reviews our early experience to identify which, if any, patients are likely to benefit from or fail this technique.MethodsWe followed all p

Physeal stapling versus 8-plate hemiepiphysiodesis for guided correction of angular deformity about the knee.

Abstract: Background Angular deformity in the lower extremities results in cosmetic deformity, gait disturbance, pain, and early joint degeneration. Corrective osteotomy is the gold standard for angular deformity, but is a major surgical intervention with significant incidence of complication. For these reasons, hemiepiphysiodesis is an attractive alternative in the growing child to allow “guided growth” to correct the angular deformity. Physeal stapling has proven success, but hardware prominence or failure has been problematic. Recently, the tension band plate construct (“8-plate”) has been promoted for hemiepiphysiodesis, citing ease of surgical technique and more rapid rate of correction. We sought to test the claim that the 8-plate effected a more rapid correction of angular deformity with a lower complication rate. Methods Hemiepiphysiodesis for angular deformity in 63 lower extremities from 2000 to 2007 were retrospectively reviewed. Thirty-nine limbs received staple hemiepiphysiodesis and 24 received 8-plate hemiepiphysiodesis. Angular measurements were compared preoperatively, during the first year postoperatively, and at the time of hardware removal or skeletal maturity. Complications requiring additional surgery for the correction of angular deformity were noted in each group. Results There was no difference between the 2 groups in the rate of correction (∼10 degrees/y, P=0.48). Complication rates were similar (12.8% vs. 12.5%, P=1.0). Patients with abnormal physes (eg, Blount disease, skeletal dysplasias) had a higher complication rate (27.8% vs. 6.7% for patients with normal physes, P=0.04) with no difference between the 8-plate and staple groups (P=1.0). The patients in the 8-plate group were significantly younger than those in the staple group (P=0.04). Conclusions The 8-plate is as effective as staple hemiepiphysiodesis for guided correction of angular deformity with respect to rate of correction and complications, even in somewhat younger patients. Higher complication rates are observed in patients with pathologic physes. Level of Evidence Therapeutic—level III retrospective comparative study.

Physeal fractures of the distal tibia: predictive factors of premature physeal closure and growth arrest.

Abstract: Background:A retrospective review of 124 patients was undertaken to determine the incidence of physeal growth arrest (premature physeal closure [PPC]) after physeal fractures of the distal end of the tibia in children. We also sought to identify clinical predictors of PPC.Methods:We defined PPC as r

Open reduction and smooth Kirschner wire fixation for unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis.

Abstract: Background Reduction of unstable slipped capital epiphysis has a bad reputation, especially in severe slips. Treatment frequently causes avascular necrosis (AVN). This study analyzes the role of capsulotomy with evacuation of intraarticular fluid and gentle reduction done as an emergency procedure followed by fixation with unthreaded Kirschner wires (K-wires). Methods We treated 64 consecutive cases of unstable slips (37 boys and 27 girls) following the same protocol. Instability was recognized in those children who had experienced a fall or a stumble, followed by acute hip pain, with radiological evidence of capital femoral separation and ultrasonographic evidence of joint effusion. The protocol consisted of capsulotomy, evacuation of intraarticular effusion or hematoma, controlled gentle reduction, and fixation of the reduced physis by smooth K-wires. Surgery was done as an emergency procedure if possible within 24 hours after the onset of acute symptoms. Results There were 20 mild slips with slip angles less than 31 degrees, 24 moderate with slip angles between 31 and 50 degrees, 20 slips were severe with slip angles between 51 and 90 degrees. In 61 cases, reduction was successful without being followed by AVN. Three patients, 2 girls and 1 boy, developed partial AVN (4.7%). Two avascular necroses occurred in moderate slips, one in a severe slip, and none in the mild slips. The outcome of 60 patients (34 boys and 26 girls) with unstable slips could be evaluated clinically and radiographically with a mean follow-up of 4.9 years (range, 18 months-104 months). The Iowa hip score in these 60 cases reached an average of 94.5 points out of 100. Conclusions Open reduction and evacuation of intraarticular hemarthrosis or effusion detected by ultrasound and smooth K-wire fixation done as an emergency is a safe and reliable treatment option for unstable slips with a low AVN rate. The severity of the slip does not influence the rate of AVN and the outcome measured by the Iowa hip score.

Child abuse and orthopaedic injury patterns: analysis at a level I pediatric trauma center.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Child abuse is a serious threat to the physical and psychosocial well-being of the pediatric population. Musculoskeletal injuries are common manifestations of child abuse. There have been multiple studies that have attempted to identify the factors associated with, and the specific injury patterns seen with musculoskeletal trauma from child abuse, yet there have been no large studies that have used prospectively collected data and controlled comparisons. The purpose of our study was to describe the patterns of orthopaedic injury for child abuse cases detected in the large urban area that our institution serves, and to compare the injury profiles of these victims of child abuse to that of general (accidental) trauma patients seen in the emergency room and/or hospitalized during the same time period. METHODS: This study is a retrospective review of prospectively collected information from an urban level I pediatric trauma center. Five hundred cases of child abuse (age birth to 48 mo) were identified by membership in our institution's Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect database collected between 1998 and 2007. These cases were compared against 985 general trauma (accidental) control patients of the same age group from 2000 to 2003. Age, sex, and injury type were compared. RESULTS: Victims of child abuse were on average younger than accidental trauma patients in the cohort of patients under 48 months of age. There was no difference in sex distribution between child abuse and accidental trauma patients. When the entire cohort of patients under 48 months were examined after adjusting for age and sex, the odds of rib (14.4 times), tibia/fibula (6.3 times), radius/ulna (5.8 times), and clavicle fractures (4.4 times) were significantly higher in child abuse versus accidental trauma patients. When regrouping the data based on age, in patients younger than 18 months of age, the odds of rib (23.7 times), tibia/fibula (12.8 times), humerus (2.3 times), and femur fractures (1.8 times) were found to be significantly higher in the child abuse group. Yet, in the more than 18 months age group, the risk of humerus (3.4 times) and femur fractures (3.3 times) was actually higher in the accidental trauma group than in the child abuse group. CONCLUSIONS: Patients who present to an urban level I pediatric trauma center and are victims of abuse are generally younger, and have an equal propensity to be male or female. It is important for the clinician to recognize that the age of the patient (younger or older than 18 mo and/or walking age) is an important determinant in identifying injury patterns suspicious for abuse. Patients below the age of 18 months who present with rib, tibia/fibula, humerus, or femur fractures are more likely to be victims of abuse than accidental trauma patients. Yet, when patients advance in age beyond 18 months, their presentation with long bone fractures (ie, femur and humerus) is more likely to be related to accidental trauma than child abuse. Language: en

A new classification system predictive of complications in surgically treated pediatric humeral lateral condyle fractures.

Abstract: BackgroundThe most commonly cited classification system for lateral condyle fractures (Milch) has not been shown to be predictive of outcome or recommend treatment.PurposeTo determine whether a classification system and treatment based on fracture displacement and articular congruity correlates with

Failure of Orthofix eight-Plate for the treatment of Blount disease

Abstract: Background Hemiepiphysiodesis is a well-established treatment option for angular deformities of the knee. Recently, our institution began using the eight-Plate tension band device by Orthofix (McKinney, Tex) as an alternative to staples. However, several patients have returned with broken screws necessitating revision surgery. Methods Charts and radiographs of all patients who were treated with the eight-Plate (Orthofix) at our institution were reviewed. The diagnosis, age, amount of angular deformity, weight, and body mass index were analyzed with respect to eventual implant failure. Results Implant failure occurred in 8 (26%) of 31 proximal tibia constructs. All 8 failures occurred in patients with Blount disease and involved breakage of the tibial metaphyseal screw. The mean time to failure was 13.6 months. Eight hardware failures in 18 Blount disease extremities represent a failure rate of 44%. No implant failures occurred in the remaining diagnoses. Neither age nor degree of deformity correlated with implant failure. The failure group was significantly heavier than the nonfailure group, and the patients with Blount disease were found to be heavier than the other patients. However, no significant difference in weight was found within the Blount group regarding implant failure. In all patients whose plates did not fail, rate of correction was equal to or better than previously reported hemiepiphysiodesis studies. Conclusions The eight-Plate (Orthofix) is a reasonable option for hemiepiphysiodesis but has an unacceptable failure rate in Blount disease (44%). There were no instances of failure in patients with other diagnoses. In Blount disease, stronger implants should be considered. Future implant designs should include stronger screws to decrease implant failure complications.

Complications after pinning of supracondylar distal humerus fractures.

Abstract: Background Supracondylar distal humerus fractures are one of the most common skeletal injuries in children. The current treatment of choice in North America is closed reduction and percutaneous pin fixation. Often surgeons leave the pins exposed beneath a cast but outside the skin. Great variation exists with respect to preoperative skin preparation, and perioperative antibiotic administration. Few data exist regarding the rate of infection and other complications. The purpose of this study is to review a large series of children to evaluate the rate of infection and other complications. Methods A retrospective review was carried out of all patients treated at our institution over an 11-year period. A total of 622 patients were identified that were followed for a minimum of 2 weeks after pin removal. Seventeen patients had flexion-type fractures, 294 had type II fractures, and 311 had type III fractures. Seventy-four fractures (11.9%) had preoperative nerve deficits with anterior interosseous palsies being the most common (33 fractures, 5.3%). Preoperative antibiotics were given to 163 patients (26.2%). Spray and towel draping were used in 362 patients, paint and towel draping were used in 65 patients, alcohol paint and towel draping were used in 146 patients, and a full preparation and draping were used in 13 patients. The pins were left exposed under the cast in 591 fractures (95%), and buried beneath the skin in 31 fractures (5.0%). A medial pin was placed in 311 fractures with a small incision made to aid placement in 18 of these cases. Results The most common complication was pin migration necessitating unexpected return to the operating room for pin removal in 11 patients (1.8%). One patient developed a deep infection with septic arthritis and osteomyelitis (0.2%). Five additional patients had superficial skin infections and were treated with oral antibiotics for a total infection rate of 6 of 622 patients (1.0%). One patient ultimately had a malunion and 4 others returned to the operating room for repeat reduction and pinning. Three patients developed compartment syndromes. Ulnar nerve injury was rare with only 1 postoperative ulnar nerve injury occurring in 311 patients treated with a medial pin (0.3%). Conclusions Closed reduction with percutaneous pinning is effective and has a low complication rate with a very low rate of infection even when simple betadine preparation and towel draping are used. Preoperative antibiotics seem to have little effect on infection rate. Level of evidence Level III retrospective comparative study.

Nonoperative treatment of spondylolysis and grade I spondylolisthesis in children and young adults: a meta-analysis of observational studies.

Abstract: Background:The incidence of spondylolysis is at least 6% by the end of childhood, and painful lesions are not infrequent. The most common treatments for spondylolysis are nonoperative in nature and include bracing, activity restriction, and therapeutic exercises. These treatments have been used eith

Familial predisposition to developmental dysplasia of the hip.

Abstract: Background: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a common birth defect and is thought to have genetic contributions to the phenotype. It is likely that DDH is genetically heterogeneous with environmental modifiers. The Utah Population Database (UPDB) is a computerized integration of pedigrees, vital statistics, and medical records representing over 6 million individuals, and is a unique resource providing the ability to search for familial factors beyond the nuclear family, decreasing the effect of a shared environment. The purpose of this study is to assess the degree of relationship between individuals with DDH. Methods: Datasets were created from UPDB statewide birth certificates and from the University of Utah Health Sciences Center enterprise data warehouse using records for DDH and linked to the UPDB. Controls for the dataset were selected that matched cases on birth year and sex and 10 controls were selected per case. Statistics computed for each family were the number of descendants, the observed number of affected, the expected number of affected, P value, familial standardize incidence ratio, relative risks (RRs), and standard error. A kinship analysis tool was used to find pedigrees with excess DDH. Results: The combined data resulted in 1649 distinct individuals with DDH. RR was significantly increased in first-degree relatives (RR = 12.1; P < 0.000001), siblings (RR = 11.9; P < 0.000001) and first cousins (RR = 1.7; P = 0.04). A total of 468 families were identified with at least 5 affected individuals in a family. These results were then filtered to only contain families that had a P value of less than 0.01. This resulted in 141 founders with anywhere between 4 and 30 affected living descendants with a P value of less than 0.01 with family sizes ranging from 594 to 44,819 descendants. A total of 28 founders had a familial standardize incidence ratio of greater than 5.0. Conclusions: These data suggest a genetic contribution to DDH with a 12-fold increase in risk for first-degree relatives. Better phenotypic characterization and classification will be critical for future genetic analyses.

Antegrade intramedullary nailing of pediatric femoral fractures using an interlocking pediatric femoral nail and a lateral trochanteric entry point.

Abstract: Background:The treatment of femoral shaft fractures in older children and adolescents using rigid intramedullary (IM) nail fixation offers the advantages of decreased soft tissue stripping, low incidence of malalignment, leg length discrepancy, early ambulation, and decreased hospital stay. Recent r

Intraarticular findings in symptomatic developmental dysplasia of the hip.

Abstract: Background The purpose of this study was to examine intraarticular pathology in patients younger than 20 years with symptomatic developmental dysplasia of the hip. Methods We performed hip arthroscopy during corrective osteotomy in 23 hips in 22 patients. All patients were female, and the average age at operation was 16.4 years. Eighteen hips were in a prearthritic stage, and 5 hips were in an early stage. The presence and location of cartilage degeneration and labral tears were evaluated. Second-look arthroscopy was performed in 13 hips in 12 patients. Results Fourteen hips (77.8%) in the prearthritic stage had cartilage degeneration. Cartilage lesions were more frequent in the acetabulum than in the femoral head (72.2% vs 16.7%). Sixty-one percent of acetabular lesions were located at the anterosuperior area. Labral tears were observed in 77.8% of hips in prearthritic stages located at the anterosuperior (72.2%) and superior (44.4%) areas. The degree of cartilage and labral lesions in the early stage was more severe than in the prearthritic stage. On second-look arthroscopy, there were no changes in the state of the cartilage and labrum in the majority (84.6%) of hips. Conclusions The incidence of intraarticular lesions in developmental dysplasia of the hip was high, even in the prearthritic stage. These lesions tended to originate in the anterosuperior area of the acetabulum and were generally progressive.

Femoroacetabular impingement after slipped capital femoral epiphysis: does slip severity predict clinical symptoms?

Abstract: Background Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) may be common after slipped capital femoral epiphysis though the actual frequency is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of symptomatic FAI in young adults after slipped capital femoral epiphysis and define its relationship with slip severity. Methods We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of 49 patients (65 hips) to determine patient and slip characteristics and treatments. Patients were then recalled for clinical and radiographic review to assess symptoms, particularly impingement, and outcomes after skeletal maturity. Results Thirty-six patients (49 hips) were reviewed clinically and radiographically with a mean follow-up of 6.1 years (range: 2.2 to 13.1 y). All patients had reached skeletal maturity. Thirty-one percent (15/49) of patients complained of hip pain or stiffness, whereas 32% (16/49) had clinical signs of impingement. The Southwick slip angle and grade of slip or Loder's classification of physeal stability were not predictive of impingement at follow-up. The anterior head-neck offset angle (α angle) correlated most strongly with FAI (r=0.26). No pre-slips or prophylactically pinned hips developed clinical impingement in this review. Conclusions In the absence of radiographic indicators to predict FAI, we advocate all but those hips pinned prophylactically or for pre-slip should be followed into adulthood and clinically monitored for impingement. Grade of slip in adolescence cannot be used as a predictive tool for FAI later in life. Level of Evidence Level II, retrospective study.

Perioperative blood transfusion requirements in pediatric scoliosis surgery: the efficacy of tranexamic acid.

Abstract: Background: Previous studies have noted that the use of antifibrinolytic medications can help reduce blood loss and transfusion requirements during cardiac, total joint arthroplasty, and spine surgery. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been investigated in these patient groups but consensus with respect to the dosing regimen has not been achieved, especially in the pediatric scoliosis literature. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of 2 TXA dosing regimens on reducing transfusion requirements. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed on all idiopathic scoliosis patients undergoing posterior spinal instrumentation and fusion from 2005 to 2006 to determine total perioperative transfusion requirements. Transfusion requirements for those patients receiving either a low (10 mg/kg loading, 1 mg/kg/h infusion) or high (20 mg/kg loading, 10 mg/kg/h infusion) dose of TXA were compared. Results: High-dose TXA (n = 11) showed a trend toward a reduction in transfusion requirements compared with the low dose (n = 15) for idiopathic scoliosis patients undergoing posterior only instrumentation and fusion (687.9 ± 778.1 mL vs 1372.6 ± 1077.3 mL; P = 0.07; 95% confidence interval for the mean difference, −66.3 mL to 1435.7 mL). Although substantial, this difference was underpowered to show a difference. Conclusions: The use of the higher dose of TXA resulted in a 50% reduction in transfusion requirements for idiopathic scoliosis patients. Given previous studies, there appears to be a dose-response effect. A prospective dose-ranging study is now required to determine the optimal dose for pediatric patients with idiopathic scoliosis. Level of Evidence: III, retrospective cohort study.

Comparative severity of pediatric osteomyelitis attributable to methicillin-resistant versus methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus.

Abstract: Background: Staphylococcus aureus remains the most common etiology of hematogenous osteomyelitis in children. Recently emerged virulent strains of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains now predominate. It remains uncertain whether these pathogens cause a measurably more severe illness than methicillin-sensitive strains.

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in the skeletally immature: an anatomical study utilizing 3-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging reconstructions.

Abstract: Introduction Anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction has proven to be a reliable method to restore knee stability. However, the risk of physeal arrest with transphyseal tunnel placement in skeletally immature patients has raised concern regarding this technique. Conservative nonoperative management also has its limitations resulting in meniscal and chondral damage that may lead to degenerative joint disease and poor return to sport. Researchers have used animal models to study the threshold of physeal damage producing growth deformity. The purpose of this study was to examine the distal femoral and proximal tibial physes and determine the damage produced by drilling transphyseal tunnels. In addition, we attempted to find a reproducible angle at which to drill the tibial tunnel for safe interference screw placement. To do this, we used a custom software module.

Community-associated Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Acute Musculoskeletal Infection in Children: A Game Changer

Abstract: BackgroundCommunity-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is a virulent pathogen responsible for an increasing number of invasive musculoskeletal infections in healthy children. The purpose of this study is to characterize the presentation, clinical course, treatment, comp

Calcaneonavicular coalition: treatment by excision and fat graft.

Abstract: Background Symptomatic calcaneonavicular coalitions treated with resection and interposition of the extensor digitorum brevis (EDB) muscle often have unpredictable improvement of symptoms. Concerns with regard to skin cosmesis from a bony prominence on the lateral aspect of the foot and inadequate filling of the resection gap potentially causing reossification have motivated us to use fat graft interposition instead. The purpose of this study was to describe our surgical technique and report our clinical and radiographic outcomes for fat graft interposition after resection of a calcaneonavicular coalition. Methods A retrospective review of all pediatric patients surgically treated with a calcaneonavicular coalition resection from January 1999 to December 2006, was performed. Presenting symptoms and examination findings were recorded. Postoperative examinations and imaging studies were evaluated to grade reossification, and functional outcomes were assessed for all patients with minimum 1-year postoperative follow-up. In addition, a cadaveric study was performed to compare the efficacy of EDB and fat graft interposition in terms of filling the postresection gap. Results Foot pain was the most common presenting complaint, though limitation of activities, stiffness, preoperative hindfoot malalignment, and associated injuries were also frequently observed. One year after resection, 87% of the patients returned to sport or their past activities, whereas 5% had symptomatic regrowth requiring repeat resection. Seventy-four percent had improvement of subtalar motion and 82% had improvement of plantarflexion; which was identified as an additional clinical sign of a calcaneonavicular bar. Preoperative pain averaged 7 of 10, whereas postoperative pain averaged less than 1 of 10 at rest, while walking, and with activities. The cadaveric study showed that the EDB was able to fill on average only 64% of the resected gap, leaving approximately 10 mm of the plantar gap unfilled. Conclusions Reossification and reoperation rates with fat graft interposition in our series were lower than in most published reports of EDB interposition. Ankle and subtalar motion improved in a vast majority of the patients, and most patients returned to sport without requiring further surgery. Resection of a calcaneonavicular coalition with interposition of fat graft, when meticulously performed, is an effective way to relieve symptoms, restore subtalar motion, and return patients to activities, while preventing reossification.

Treatment of neuromuscular and syndrome-associated (nonidiopathic) clubfeet using the Ponseti method.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Clubfeet are associated with many neuromuscular and congenital conditions. Nonidiopathic clubfeet are typically thought to be resistant to nonoperative management. The Ponseti method has revolutionized the treatment of patients with idiopathic clubfeet. The purpose of this study was to describe the use of the Ponseti method in the treatment of patients whose clubfeet are associated with a neuromuscular diagnosis or a syndrome. METHODS: All patients with clubfeet who were treated at the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, from 2001 to 2005 were reviewed. Patients were included only if a neuromuscular condition or a syndrome associated with clubfeet could be identified and if the primary treatment was at our institution. Twenty-three patients with 40 nonidiopathic clubfeet and 171 patients with 249 idiopathic clubfeet have been treated with a minimum follow-up time of 1 year. The outcomes evaluated included the number of casts, the percentage of patients requiring percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening (tenotomy of the Achilles tendon [TAT]), rate of recurrences, rate of failures, and the need for additional secondary procedures. RESULTS: The mean age at presentation for nonidiopathic clubfeet was 11 weeks. The mean follow-up time was 33 months, and the mean number of casts was 6.4; a percutaneous TAT was necessary in 27 (68%) of 40 feet. Failure of the Ponseti casting occurred in 4 (10%) of the 40 feet. Recurrence requiring additional treatment occurred in 16 (44%) of 36 feet. Additional procedures included second percutaneous TAT, limited posterior/plantar release, or complete posteromedial release totaling 11 (28%) of 40. When compared with idiopathic clubfeet, nonidiopathic clubfeet required more casts and had a higher rate of failures, recurrences, and additional procedures than idiopathic clubfeet. CONCLUSIONS: Although not as successful as for idiopathic clubfeet, when the Ponseti technique is applied to nonidiopathic clubfeet, correction can be achieved and maintained in most patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic level 2.

Early changes in pulmonary function after vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib insertion in children with thoracic insufficiency syndrome.

Abstract: BACKGROUND The vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib (VEPTR) has been inserted in children with thoracic insufficiency syndrome for the last decade to expand and support the chest and allow for further lung growth. There are minimal published data evaluating the postoperative change in lung function after VEPTR insertion. We hypothesize that there will be a significant increase in lung function after VEPTR insertion, and the earlier the insertion, the greater the improvement. METHODS The Chest Wall Disorders Study Group Database, containing data before and after VEPTR insertion from 7 different centers, was queried for spirometry and lung volume measurements, and the data were analyzed to assess the short-term effect on lung function of VEPTR placement. RESULTS There was a statistically significant decrease in forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second as a percent of predicted, an increase in residual volume (RV) that did not reach statistical significance, and there was no change in total lung capacity at the first postoperative visit (7.7 +/- 4.8 months). There was a significant decrease in Cobb angle. There was no correlation between absolute change in any pulmonary function and Cobb angle age at the time of surgery. CONCLUSIONS Although there is a clinically and radiographically apparent expansion of the thorax after VEPTR insertion, there is no similar improvement in lung volume, and instead there is a decrease in forced vital capacity and increase in residual volume, the explanation for which requires further study. This lack of change in pulmonary function after VEPTR insertion suggests that the benefit of VEPTR insertion may lie more in stabilizing the thorax and improving respiratory mechanics measured in other ways.

Postnatal growth of the clavicle: birth to 18 years of age

Abstract: BackgroundThe purpose of our study was to perform a large cross-sectional study aimed at determining the postnatal growth pattern of the clavicle from birth to 18 years of age.MethodsWe analyzed the digital chest radiographs of a convenience sample of 961 individuals between birth and 18 years of ag

Predictive factors for unsuccessful treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip by the Pavlik harness.

Abstract: BackgroundThe Pavlik harness is a widely used and effective means of initial treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), but some hips fail to stabilize with the use of harness and avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head can occur Predictive factors for unsuccessful Pavlik harness t

Femoral anteversion in developmental dysplasia of the hip.

Abstract: BackgroundLimited data exist in the literature with regard to the amount of femoral anteversion in children with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The data that do exist are variable: certain studies cite increased version in DDH compared with normal while others have found no significant di

Proximal humeral fractures in children and adolescents.

Abstract: BACKGROUND The purpose of the study was to investigate possible reasons for the failure of closed reduction of proximal humerus fractures in children and adolescents. We assessed the rate of soft tissue entrapment, and we also investigated the long-term clinical and radiological results after an age- and deformity-focused treatment regimen according to national guidelines. METHODS Forty-three patients were included in the study. Ten (mean age, 12.4 years; range, 6-16 years) of the patients were treated conservatively. The remaining 33 patients (mean age, 14 years; range, 6-18 years) were treated surgically (n = 2 Neer grade 2, n = 16 Neer grade 3, and n = 15 Neer grade 4) with either closed (n = 16) or open reduction with internal fixation. In 17 fractures, closed anatomical reduction of the fracture under general anesthesia was not possible. Subsequent open reduction and Kirschner wire or screw fixation (n = 12) or plate fixation (n = 5) was necessary. In 9 of these 17 fractures (5 fractures were totally displaced fractures), closed reduction was impossible because of the entrapment of periost (n = 2) or the biceps tendon with parts of the periost (n = 7). At follow-up, the clinical assessment included a structured interview, a detailed physical examination, and the assessment of overall shoulder function with the Constant score. RESULTS Operative and postoperative complications did not occur. All surgically treated fractures anatomically reduced and healed without loss of reduction. At a mean follow-up of 39 months (range, 12-118 months), all patients who were evaluated had excellent results according to the Constant score and had a normal range of motion and excellent strength of the shoulder joint. CONCLUSIONS A failed closed reduction should be interpreted as a possible soft tissue entrapment most likely because of the long biceps tendon. Those cases should be addressed with open reduction and removal of the entrapped structures. If anatomical reduction is achieved and maintained until fracture healing, excellent functional and radiological results can be expected from an age- and deformity-focused treatment regimen for children and adolescents with proximal humeral fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level 4 (Therapeutic study).

The Dega osteotomy: a versatile osteotomy in the treatment of developmental and neuromuscular hip pathology.

Abstract: Background The purpose of this study is to evaluate the use of the Dega osteotomy in the treatment of hip pathology resulting from both developmental dysplasia (DDH) and neuromuscular disease (NM) Methods We retrospectively reviewed the results of one surgeon's operative experience with the Dega osteotomy for the treatment of DDH and NM Forty-four patients (50 hips) with an average length of follow-up of 53 months were identified The Dega was customized at the time of surgery to provide more anterior or posterior coverage depending on the needs of the individual hip Results In all cases, there were no intraoperative complications and all hips were well reduced postoperatively In the DDH group, there were 22 children (26 hips), who underwent surgery at a mean age of 31 years Thirteen hips had a concomitant open reduction and 4 had a femoral osteotomy There were 5 complications: 2 femoral head lateralizations, 2 avascular necroses (asymptomatic), and 1 traumatic dislocation One patient (1 hip) had a reoperation All patients had unlimited physical activity with no limp with an improvement in the acetabular index from 37 degrees preoperatively to 13 degrees at last follow-up In the NM group, there were 22 children (24 hips), who underwent surgery at a mean age of 63 years Twenty-three hips had concomitant procedures performed At an average of 56 months postoperatively, all patients were pain-free There were 5 complications: 1 graft dislodgement, 1 graft collapse, and 3 femoral head lateralizations Three patients (3 hips) had a reoperation Acetabular index improved from 36 degrees preoperatively to 14 degrees, and the migration percentage ranged from 84% to 14% Conclusions In this series of Dega osteotomies, one of the largest in the English literature, the osteotomy seems safe and effective in the treatment of both DDH and NM hip disease The Dega osteotomy is utilitarian, as it may provide increased acetabular coverage anteriorly or posteriorly depending on where it is hinged Level of evidence Therapeutic study, clinical case series: level IV

A prospective cohort study of the effects of lower extremity orthopaedic surgery on outcome measures in ambulatory children with cerebral palsy.

Abstract: Background: Lower-extremity musculotendinous surgery is standard treatment for ambulatory children with deformities such as joint contractures and bony torsions resulting from cerebral palsy (CP). However, evidence of efficacy is limited to retrospective, uncontrolled studies with small sample sizes focusing on gait variables and clinical examination measures. The aim of this study was to prospectively examine whether lower-extremity musculotendinous surgery in ambulatory children with CP improves impairments and function measured by gait and clinical outcome tools beyond changes found in a concurrent matched control group. Methods: Seventy-five children with spastic CP (Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I to III, age 4 to 18 y) that underwent surgery to improve gait were individually matched on the basis of sex, Gross Motor Function Classification System level, and CP subtype to a nonsurgical cohort, minimizing differences in age and Gross Motor Function Measure Dimension E. At baseline and at least 12 months after baseline or surgery, participants completed gait analysis and Gross Motor Function Measure, and parents completed outcome questionnaires. Mean changes at follow-up were compared using analysis of covariance adjusted for baseline differences. Results: Surgery ranged from single-level soft tissue release to multilevel bony and/or soft tissue procedures. At follow-up, after correcting for baseline differences, Gillette Gait Index, Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument Expectations, and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Physical Functioning improved significantly for the surgical group compared with the nonsurgical group, which showed minimal change. Conclusions: On the basis of a matched concurrent data set, there was significant improvement in function after 1 year for a surgical group compared with a nonsurgical group as measured by the Gillette Gait Index, with few significant changes noted in outcome measures. Changes over 1 year are minimal in the nonsurgical group, supporting the possibility of ethically performing a randomized controlled trial using nonsurgical controls. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic level 2. Prospective comparative study.

Urgent reduction, fixation, and arthrotomy for unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis.

Abstract: BACKGROUND The management of unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is controversial. A high incidence of avascular necrosis (AVN) has been reported after unstable SCFE. METHODS Twenty-eight consecutive patients with thirty unstable SCFE underwent urgent reduction and fixation with two 6.5-mm cannulated screws. Positional reduction was performed in 25 cases. Arthrotomy was performed percutaneously in 16 cases and as part of an open capsulotomy in 5 cases. RESULTS Slip severity was mild in 13 patients, moderate in 9, and severe in 8. At mean duration of follow-up of 5.5 years (range: 2.0 to 11.2), 4 patients reported groin pain, and 8 patients reported a limp. Four patients developed AVN. One patient experienced slip progression and no patient developed chondrolysis. CONCLUSIONS Treatment of unstable SCFE with urgent positional reduction with accompanying arthrotomy and fixation through 2 cannulated screws resulted in a low incidence of slip progression and AVN. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic study, level 4 (case series, no or historical control group).

Post-closed reduction perfusion magnetic resonance imaging as a predictor of avascular necrosis in developmental hip dysplasia: a preliminary report.

Abstract: INTRODUCTION Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head remains a major complication in the treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in infants. We performed a retrospective analysis to look at the predictive ability of postclosed reduction contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for AVN after closed reduction in DDH. METHODS Twenty-eight hips in 27 infants (aged 1-11 months) with idiopathic hip dislocations who had failed brace treatment underwent closed reduction +/- adductor tenotomy and spica cast application under general anesthesia. Magnetic resonance imaging of the hips after intravenous gadolinium contrast injection for evaluation of epiphyseal perfusion was obtained immediately after cast application. Patients were followed with serial radiographs for a minimum of 1 year after closed reduction. Presence of AVN was determined by the presence of any one of the 5 Salter criteria by 2 readers. Magnetic resonance imaging was graded as normal, asymmetric enhancement, focal decreased enhancement, or global decreased enhancement by 2 radiologists. RESULTS Six (21%) of 28 hips showed evidence of clinically significant AVN on follow-up radiographs. Fifty percent of the hips with AVN, but only 2 of 22 hips without AVN, showed a global decreased MRI enhancement (P < 0.05, Fisher exact test). Multivariate logistic regression indicated that a global decreased enhancement was associated with a significantly higher risk of developing AVN (P < 0.01), independently of age at reduction (P = 0.02) and abduction angle. CONCLUSIONS In addition to accurate anatomical assessment of a closed reduction in DDH, gadolinium-enhanced MRI provides information about femoral head perfusion that may be predictive for future AVN. At present, it is premature to use the perfusion information for routine clinical use. However, it opens the door to studies looking at repositioning or alternative reduction methods that may reduce the risk of AVN in this higher risk group.